Academy 16s recap: Rapids open Winter Showcase with losses

The Colorado Rapids Under-16 squad opened the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Winter Showcase with a pair of tough results, a 1-0 loss to De Anza Force on Thursday and a 2-0 defeat to Vancouver Whitecaps on Friday.

On Thursday, De Anza took an early lead, scoring in the first minute of play. The squad responded well, creating several opportunities, but were unable to find the net for a 1-0 loss. On Friday, the team again had a tough start after having to make two first half substitutions due to injury. Still, the Rapids fought on and created some chances but none that really tested the Vancouver goalkeeper. Vancouver then scored early in the second half and once again in stoppage time to earn a 2-0 victory over the Rapids.

The results bring the team to a 4-6-5 record at 9th in the Frontier Division (based on points per game). The squad has one match left of the tournament to end 2013 on a high note, facing the Seattle Sounders on Sunday at 9 a.m. ET at the Premier Sports Complex near Bradenton, Fla.